Parks and Recreation

The Paul Henry Thornapple Trail Park is a linear park open to non-motorized use. This newest recreational resource joins Charlton Park and the McKeown Bridge Road Park as parks that are overseen by Barry County.

This linear park is operated under agreement with the Thornapple Trail Association, whose members donate time and tools to help maintain the trail. Future plans include educational signage that will be placed along the trail to emphasize the area’s natural, historic, and cultural resources.

Maher Audubon Sanctuary

TERRAIN:The Maher Sanctuary contains a series of wetlands surrounded by glacial features. Wetlands include a sedge meadow, a marl pond, an extensive shrub swamp and two branches of Caine Creek. There is a nice meadow along the south loop of the main circle trail. Because of the wetlands, much of this trail is boardwalk.

VANTAGE POINTS:From the parking area on 108th, a trail leads to the main circle trail. Other features may be reached from this trail including the trail to the artesian well in the southeastern corner of the sanctuary and the bridge across Caine Creek that leaves you on your own.

SPECIES TO BE SEEN:A variety of wetland and woodland birds nest here and migrants pass through. Common Yellowthroat, Chipping Sparrow and Swamp Sparrow are summer residents. Nests have been found of Yellow Warbler and Gray Catbird. Look for Ruffed Grouse in any season.

SPECIAL SIGHTINGS:Yellow-breasted Chats have been found near the marl pond. Screech Owls have been found roosting in several locations. Common Snipe may be found “winnowing” over wetlands in spring. Some of the best sightings here are plants, not birds.

HAZARDS:Wet feet are likely if you stray from the boardwalk. Even on the trail wet and muddy areas are possible. Watch for poison ivy growing along the trail and up through the boardwalk.

GENERAL:A variety of experiences is possible here. Often more plants are seen than birds, but the plants are generally quite unusual. Some of the bird experiences are very memorable. Frogs, butterflies and other wildlife are common here, and it’s always an interesting place for a hike.

DIRECTIONS:From Grand Rapids take I-96 east to Lowell. Exit at the Lowell exit and take Alden Nash Ave. south to 100th St. Proceed east 1/2 mile on 100th to Baker Ave. Turn right and go one mile south on Baker, which becomes Woodschool at 108th St. This is the Barry County line. The Maher Sanctuary is located on the southwest corner of Woodschool and 108th. Turn right on 108th and look for the parking area on the left (south) side of the road about 1/4 mile west of Woodschool.